Treatment for Holly Bush Leaves Turning Black

Although the holly bush is generally hardy and resistant to many diseases and insects that attack other shrubs, even with the best of cultural practices, insects can attack the holly bush. If you are in doubt as to what is infesting or infecting your holly, take a sample to your county cooperative extension agent for diagnosis. When leaves turn black, it is usually a sign of black sooty mold, which grows on insect excrement. Sooty mold, if allowed to build up on the foliage, can kill the plant by interfering with photosynthesis. It is also a clear indication of an insect problem, most commonly aphids.

Treat Black Leaves On Holly Bushes

sturdy shrubs or trees with thick, glossy leaves and colorful berries, generally grow in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 through 11, depending on the species. Although hollies vary in size, fruit color and invasive characteristics, they share a susceptibility to a sooty mold disease that turns the leaves black. Look on the stems and beneath the leaves for rounded, black or brown bumps no larger than 1/4 inch long. The bumps might look waxy, fuzzy or smooth. Scraping the scales off using an old toothbrush or your fingernails can help control small numbers of scale insects. Carefully read and follow label instructions. One neem oil product recommends using 1 to 2 fluid ounces of product for every 1 gallon of water. Using a handheld garden sprayer, thoroughly wet down the entire bush with the solution, paying special attention to the undersides of leaves. Repeat applications every seven to 14 days until scale populations are under control. Spray plants in the early morning or late evening to avoid killing pollinating insects and to reduce the risk of leaf burn. Spray oil only on calm days when the temperature is between 40 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit and rain isn't expected for at least 24 hours. Keep people and pets out of the treatment area until the solution thoroughly dries.